What should you know about a dark spot with a lump under the skin?

A blocked pore or cyst can create a rounded lump and may leave darker pigment after inflammation. An ingrown hair, acne nodule, insect bite, or scar can also feel raised. A flat dark patch beside a separate lump may represent two unrelated findings. A lump that is hard, fixed, enlarging, persistently bleeding, or repeatedly crusting needs a clinician's assessment because appearance alone cannot identify it.

Do not squeeze, puncture, shave over, or repeatedly press the lump. Wash gently, use a warm compress only if it is mildly tender and inflamed, and photograph it beside a ruler for comparison. Note pain, discharge, mobility, growth, and how long it has been present. Avoid pigment peels or lightening products until the raised lesion has been identified. A clinician can decide whether observation, medical treatment, or removal is appropriate.

Arrange a prompt examination if the lump is growing, firm and fixed, painful, hot, draining, or associated with spreading redness. Seek urgent care for fever with rapidly worsening swelling, severe pain, or redness near the eye. A dark spot that changes colour, outline, or surface also merits a dermatology review even if the lump is small.

Ask whether the lump resembles a cyst, inflamed follicle, scar, or another type of lesion, and whether it needs dermatoscopy or another test. Ask whether the pigment should be treated now, what not to apply, and which changes require earlier review.